The Golden Years

As your dog gets older, continue to give him annual exam visits with your veterinarian. It's especially important to have your pet's health checked during his older years when medical problems can come up. Some larger breeds that weigh in at over 90 pounds can reach their golden years as young as six to nine years of age. A 10-pound toy dog may become senior anywhere from nine to thirteen years of age. Some common health issues to consider for an older dog are hearing loss, diminished eyesight, muscular aches and pains, and loss of bladder control.

Changes In Behavior While Aging

As your pet ages, he may have some changes in behavior. He may be undergoing a diminished sense of smell, eyesight, and hearing. Aches and pains or more serious medical conditions like heart and liver disease can also affect his behavior. Your canine can also undergo a syndrome like Alzheimer. The physical problems that come with aging can give your dog a range of behavior changes from irritability to lack of responsiveness or disorientation.

Caring for Older Dogs

As your dog gets older, his body will inevitably go through changes. Aches, pains, and muscle weakness are often a part of aging. To help your dog transition, consider various aspects of his life to help ease any discomfort. Give him amply padded bedding to accommodate any stiffness or discomfort he may feel. Keep him in a warm dry environment. Older dogs aren't able to regulate their body temperatures as well as their younger canine counterparts. Consider giving your canine a massage to help him relax and loosen stiff joints. For taller breeds, an elevated food dish may help alleviate any difficulties in reaching a floor level bowl. Feed him a diet specially formulated for older dogs that suits his needs for reduced calories. Take care to make sure that his teeth are in good form, free of plaque and tartar. And make sure that he gets sufficient exercise to keep him spry.

Exercise for Older Dogs

As your dog gets older, you may be concerned about the amount of exercise that she gets. In general, going on hikes, walking, and swimming with your older dog are fine as long is she's healthy. Give her a regular exercise routine, but keep in mind her physical level. If you notice any signs of tiredness or panting, it's time to take a break.

Walking the Older Dog

You might be concerned about your older dog, but as long as she's healthy, don't stop walking her. Exercise keeps canines of all ages fit and healthy. The key is to give her the amount of physical activity that is appropriate for her age level. So keep walking your canine as long as she's interested and able. If you notice any signs of soreness, panting, or tiredness, it's time to slow down the activity level.